Integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel

Abstract

This invention relates to an integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel for receiving another vessel. Further the integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel is able to provide logistical support to the other vessel in remote locations. More particularly, this invention relates to an integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel that is designed to carry out heavy lifting and logistic supply functions in a stable manner. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel is also equipped with safe refuge quarters, helipad(s), various forms of storage, and areas for storage.

The invention claimed is: 
     
       1. An integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel for docking a vessel comprising:
 a deck having a first section for receiving a vessel, and a second section bordered by a first wing-wall provided on a port side of the deck, a second wing-wall provided on a starboard side of the deck, and a deck box provided at a bow of the deck, the deck box abutting the first wing-wall and the second wing-wall wherein the first wing-wall comprises a first tube extending from a hull of the integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel to the deck, the first tube having a first opening at the hull and a second opening at a surface of the first wing-wall facing the deck, wherein in response to the ballasting system lowering the deck below the water level, water flows through the first tube via the first opening and the second opening to flood the second section of the deck and further wherein the first tube is tilted at an angle in relation to a surface of the deck such that the first opening of the tube is positioned lower than the second opening of the first tube; 
 a ballasting system configured to lower the deck below a water level and below a hull of a docking vessel, and to raise the deck above the water level, wherein the second section of the deck is configured to flood when the deck is lowered below the water level; and 
 an accommodation unit provided on a top surface of the deck box. 
 
     
     
       2. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel of  claim 1  wherein the second wing-wall comprises:
 a second tube extending from a hull of the integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel to the deck, the second tube having a first opening at the hull and a second opening at a surface of the second wing-wall facing the deck, wherein in response to the ballasting system lowering the deck below the water level, water flows through the first opening and the second opening to flood the second section of the deck. 
 
     
     
       3. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel of  claim 1  further comprising:
 a helipad provided on a top surface of the accommodation unit. 
 
     
     
       4. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel of  claim 1  further comprising:
 means for handling discharge of cargo from the integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel to an attending vessel. 
 
     
     
       5. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel of  claim 1  further comprising:
 an emergency shelter. 
 
     
     
       6. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel of  claim 5  wherein the emergency shelter further comprises emergency medical facilities. 
     
     
       7. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel of  claim 1  further comprising:
 storage means provided in a hull of the integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel for storing liquids. 
 
     
     
       8. The integrated heavy lift and logistics vessel of  claim 1  further comprising:
 pipe racks provided on the deck box for storing tubular members.